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How Brian Hess Is Using Technology Is Disrupting The Construction Industry
The notion that we are in the midst of a technological revolution may sound like old news. The first iPhone was introduced to the world in 2007 and things have been changing exponentially ever since.
We have drones delivering parcels and robots making pizza. It’s only a matter of time before every facet of life is impacted by these changes, and for the construction industry, that time is now.
Cost savings predicted by incorporating technology
The construction industry is one that’s been resistant to change. It has only gained 1% of productivity in the past 20 years. But things are changing—and fast. By 2042, full-scale digitization is projected to result in 12%-20% annual cost savings for the construction industry.
Tools, such as collaborative software, will allow construction companies to work more quickly and efficiently. For Brian Hess, CEO and founder of The Pavement Group, this type of software was crucial during a year of lockdowns.
“Our technology allowed our clients to be involved at every stage from wherever they were in the world,” says Hess. Clients can monitor projects remotely and provide feedback quickly, minimizing delays. Overall, it results in a more positive personalized customer experience.
Remote construction work during lockdown
The tool has been key to the company’s success. During the pandemic, The Pavement Group has been able to take on projects across the country. “We currently have offices in Pittsburgh, Boston and Minneapolis, but we’re not limited to projects nearby. We expect to be in 15 cities in the next 10 years.”
Hess is an advocate for all things digital. He’s become an industry leader in his use of social media and digital marketing in his business. His website is search-engine optimized, meaning it can be found easily on Google. On his site, you’ll find eBooks and even a live chat that allows you to get answers 24/7.
Contractor turned influencer
Perhaps most notable is his use of social media. Hess is what’s known as a micro-influencer, with a following of nearly 20,000 people. “My social media presence has made more people interested in not only working for our company but in the construction industry in general.”
Hess believes technology is key to success for any construction company operating today. But in an industry where word of mouth has long been the primary marketing tool, it can be a difficult adjustment.
This gap is what led Hess to found Top Contractor School, where contractors can learn the tools they need to become future-proof. Through coaching and online courses, other entrepreneurs in the industry can learn how to adapt to the changing times and “live their best life.”
The outlook for the global construction industry is positive. It is expected to grow to $12.7 trillion in 2022, up nearly 20% from 2018 and as such will continue to attract young and innovative entrepreneurs like Brian Hess.
The future is digital
Disruption is inevitable and success will depend on the willingness of companies to adapt to the changes. With the right know-how, they can leverage these digital tools to reduce cost and improve customer experience.
Harper Harrison is a reporter for The Hear UP. Harper got an internship at the NPR and worked as a reporter and producer. harper has also worked as a reporter for the Medium. Harper covers health and science for The Hear UP.